Over the past two weeks, staff, leaders and physicians have gone above-and-beyond what's necessary to provide exceptional care. COVID-19 has tested our resilience like nothing ever before, yet stories about how we're looking out for each other shows us how kindness can grow, even during difficult times.
When the spread of COVID-19 and infection control concerns resulted in the cancellation of patient-ordered food deliveries to FPH last week, leadership found a safe way for the weekend tradition to continue that reduces risk to patients and staff.
The solution involved 63 pizzas, which were delivered to the hospital on Saturday night. Each unit received seven pizzas, and unit staff portioned and handed out the pizza slices to help keep the risk of transmission down.
"It was important for us to balance the desire for outside food delivery -- which brings the patients a lot of happiness -- with the need for strict infection control practices," said Trevor Aarbo, Senior Director, Patient Care Service, FPH. "Staff and patients were pleased with the compromise."
Tim Horton's visited the Burnaby Centre for Mental Health and Addiction and Forensic Psychiatric Hospital last week to deliver (individually prepackaged!) treats and coffee for staff. The kind gesture is just one example of how the public has rallied behind healthcare workers for their commitment and dedication to the public throughout this pandemic.
After 42 years as a nurse, Maureen Sexsmith, Director, Inter-professional Practice for Correctional Health Services decided to postpone her retirement so that she can continue to support her team and clients across BCMHSUS. We are all inspired and thankful to have her dedication and leadership at this critical time.
Thank you, Maureen.
